Germany: Berlin Adler Fires HC Kuci

Kim Kuci has been fired as coach of the Berlin Adler, a few days after losing 7-56 in a GFL regular season game against the New Yorker Lions – the highest Adler loss since 2001 – but only a week after winning their second Eurobowl title, defeating the reigning German champion from Braunschweig 20-17.

Offensive coach Johnny Schmuck and Defensive Coach Jag Bal will lead the Adler for the remainder of the season. Offensive Line Coach Eric Schramm, also Head Coach of the Adler Youth Team, was named Sports Director.

“We don’t want to deny Mr. Kuci’s coaching qualities. But we had different opinions on many other levels and wanted to re-direct the club” said Adler vice president and spokesperson Diana Hoge.

”We thank Kim Kuci for his extraordinary commitment, which led us to the Eurobowl and wish him all the best for his professional future” the Adler said in a statement.

Kuci addressed the media on Thursday.

"I received a call first and an e-mail afterwards, where I was informed about my release. I was shocked, sad and stunned. From a competitive standpoint we were right on track" Kuci said. "The team still has a chance to play for the GFL championship. I would have loved to stay with the team and finish the season in dignity.”

The Adler are in fifth place of the GFL North Division now. Only the top four teams advance to the playoffs, but there a still 5 games left, all home games. On Sunday the Adler will face the EFAF Cup champion Kiel Baltic Hurricanes against whom they lost the last 10 league meetings since 2010.